The 10 Best Restaurants in Long Beach
By Grace Armstrong | Updated 3 Days Ago
Long Beach, California, offers a diverse culinary scene with everything from waterfront dining to cozy neighborhood bistros. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these ten must-visit restaurants provide a taste of both local and international flavors, each with unique offerings and excellent service. This list will help you discover the top dining spots in Long Beach, ensuring a memorable experience.
Parkers’ Lighthouse
Parkers’ Lighthouse in Long Beach is beautifully situated with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This restaurant is celebrated for its finely prepared seafood, featuring favorites like the Seafood Tower and Chilean seabass. Each meal is a showcase of culinary skill, enhanced by the sunset’s glow and sophisticated decor, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed atmosphere makes any visit special. Here, you can enjoy dishes like the perfectly cooked Lobster Club or the rich Seafood Cobb, all while taking in the expansive ocean views. Parkers’ Lighthouse stands out as a top destination for those who treasure expertly crafted seafood and beautiful surroundings.
King’s Fish House – Long Beach
At King’s Fish House, it’s about diving deep into the bounty of the sea. This gem in the heart of Long Beach dazzles with its array of fresh, succulent seafood, from the tender Chilean Sea Bass to the delightful Yellow Tail and soft shell crab. The oysters, fresh as the morning tide, are a must-try for connoisseurs and casual diners alike, celebrated for their pristine taste.
The ambiance of King’s Fish House transports you straight to the heart of coastal living. The attentive staff enhances the dining experience, guiding you through a menu that’s both innovative and comforting. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this spot promises a deep dive into seafood mastery, all set within the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Long Beach.
The Attic
Nestled on Broadway, The Attic brings a Southern charm to Long Beach with its inventive take on comfort food. Best known for its “Mac n’ Cheetos,” a daring twist on traditional mac and cheese, this cozy spot encapsulates innovation and nostalgia in every bite. The shabby-chic décor, complete with a wrap-around porch and quaint furnishings, invites diners into a world where Southern hospitality meets Californian flair.
Visitors rave about the hearty brunch offerings, particularly the short rib hash and the Bloody Marys, acclaimed for their bold flavors and creative presentation. The Attic’s ambiance, a seamless blend of casual and quaint, makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely weekend meal or a delightful dinner. This hidden gem is a must-visit for those looking to indulge in the heartier side of Long Beach’s culinary scene.
The Crab Pot Restaurant & Bar-Long Beach
For an immersive dining experience, The Crab Pot offers an exciting, hands-on approach to seafood. Known for the “Seafeast,” diners can indulge in piles of steamed shellfish, served with all the tools needed to crack, peel, and enjoy a meal that’s as fun as it is flavorful. The views of the marina add a special touch, making every meal feel like a seaside getaway.
The atmosphere at The Crab Pot is charged with energy and enthusiasm, matched by a service team that delights in making your meal a memorable event. With seafood so fresh, every dish is a celebration of the ocean’s diverse offerings. This is a place for laughter, good company, and great food, making it a cornerstone of Long Beach’s culinary scene.
555 East American Steakhouse
555 East American Steakhouse is a sanctuary for meat lovers, where the revered tradition of the American steakhouse is observed and elevated. Here, the steak is the star; each cut, from the robust ribeye to the tender filet mignon, is handled with reverence and expertise. The ambiance mirrors the classic steakhouse experience—dark wood, intimate lighting, and a hum of contented diners.
But 555 East isn’t just about steak. Seafood lovers will find solace in its perfectly cooked salmon, and the chateaubriand is as generous as it is delectable. The service is impeccable, with a staff that anticipates every need. For a dinner where every detail counts, make your reservation at 555 East—a place where both steak and seafood are celebrated with equal passion.
San Pedro Fish Market Long Beach
San Pedro Fish Market Long Beach brings the spirit of the bustling fish market to the refined dining scene. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and expansive views of the marina, this restaurant delivers a seafood experience that’s as fresh as it is festive. The famous shrimp tray and the steamer clams are highlights, offering a taste of the local catch in a setting that’s alive with excitement.
The service is as sparkling as the ocean, with a team that’s eager to share their love of seafood and their knowledge of the catch. Dining here is not just about eating; it’s about participating in a Long Beach tradition that celebrates the sea in every dish. Whether you’re sharing a meal with family or enjoying a casual outing with friends, San Pedro promises a feast for the senses.
Liv’s – Seafood & Oyster bar
Liv’s – Seafood & Oyster Bar offers a refined approach to local dining, focusing on sustainably sourced seafood and vibrant, creative dishes. The oyster selection is a study in quality and variety, perfect for the connoisseur looking to sample the best of what Long Beach waters have to offer. The menu at Liv’s speaks to the soul of the sea, with each dish crafted to highlight the natural flavors of its ingredients.
This restaurant is a canvas for innovation, where the local catch is transformed into culinary art. The ambiance at Liv’s is both modern and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a chic dinner or a leisurely Sunday brunch. Here, the connection to the ocean is palpable, not just in the fresh flavors but also in the conscientious approach to seafood dining.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Long Beach
Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Long Beach marries the opulence of traditional steakhouse dining with impeccable service and a prime waterfront location. Known for steaks that are always sizzling and a wine list that complements every flavor, Ruth’s Chris is a staple for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The steaks, particularly the tomahawk, are a symphony of flavor, perfectly aged and seared to perfection.
As you dine under the soft lighting and classic decor, the attentive staff at Ruth’s Chris makes every meal an occasion. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply enjoying the pleasures of a well-cooked steak, Ruth’s Chris offers a dining experience that is both grand and intimate, making it a must-visit for anyone in Long Beach.
Heritage
Heritage is renowned for its culinary excellence, skillfully combining local ingredients with international cooking methods to craft a truly unique menu. The tasting menu is an exciting culinary journey, featuring innovative and satisfying dishes complemented by carefully selected wine pairings that enhance every flavor.
Dining at Heritage feels like being part of an exclusive celebration. Each dish comes with its own story, and every ingredient is chosen with care. The restaurant’s elegant yet inviting atmosphere, along with a dedicated service team, ensures a flawless dining experience. Heritage is not just a place to eat; it’s a place to learn and enjoy the art of fine dining.
L’Opera
L’Opera offers a slice of Italy in the heart of Long Beach, with a menu that pays homage to traditional Italian cuisine while embracing a modern flair. The dishes, from the robust chicken lasagna to the delicate “Il Pesce Crudo All’Italiana,” are crafted with authenticity and care. The dining room, often filled with the melodies of live opera, provides a backdrop that is both dramatic and delightful.
The service at L’Opera is as polished as the glassware, with a warmth that complements the sumptuous surroundings. Here, each meal is not just a dish but a dialogue between chef and diner, a celebration of Italian culinary traditions that resonate well beyond the last bite. For an enchanting evening out, L’Opera promises not just a meal, but a memorable journey through the tastes and sounds of Italy.
Long Beach’s top ten restaurants offer unique and memorable dining experiences that showcase the city’s vibrant culinary scene. From fresh seafood by the water to rich steaks and innovative global dishes, these establishments provide a diverse range of flavors that reflect the spirit of Long Beach. Exploring these restaurants is a must for anyone wanting to enjoy great food and create lasting memories.